This archive report was first published on 22 December 2019.
What your money can do for you this festive time ¶
As the festive season approaches, many Kenyans are struggling financially. According to Roselyne Mwangi, a travel agent, this is due to delayed payments to suppliers by the government and the recent change in currency notes.
Despite the financial struggles, Mwangi and other travel agents have come up with suggestions on how families can enjoy the festive season within their budget.
For families with a budget of between Sh1,000 and Sh5,000, Mwangi recommends looking for public places where entry is free, such as Uhuru Park and Uhuru Gardens. They can also prepare their own meals and head to these places for a picnic.
For those in Kisumu, Ouma Oloko suggests laying emphasis on foods available in plenty locally, such as fried tilapia fish served with ugali, rice or chips. They can also visit the eateries at Dunga Beach and other lakeside spots.
Edward Wangechi, the general manager of Naro Moru River Lodge, recommends homestays in Central Kenya as a budget-friendly option. These homestays offer affordable meals and accommodation, and some even have a variety of birds to see.
Victor Sitakha, the manager of Flamingo Beach Resort, suggests that families on this budget category can eat out at several exciting coastal eateries in the Old Town area. They can also visit places like the Pirates public beach for Christmas Day entertainment.
For families with a budget of between Sh5,000 and Sh15,000, Mwangi recommends dining in fast-food eateries, restaurants, and city hotels offering buffet or à la carte menus. They can also visit shopping malls with children's activities, GP karting, or ice skating at Panari Hotel.
For families in Central Kenya falling under this category, Wangechi says there is a variety of places they can afford in terms of meals and other forms of entertainment, among them Outspan, Green Hills, Naro Moru River Lodge, Mt Kenya Leisure Lodge, Anka Resort, Jaqanaz, Nokras, Misty Lodge, and Falcon Heights.
For families with a budget of between Sh15,000 and Sh30,000, Mwangi says they will be spoilt for choice. They can afford a nice meal at Safari Park Hotel's nyama choma ranch, among other places, and for entertainment, they can visit the Carnivore restaurant.
Published on December 22, 2019.
